10536239

Soft Channel Tracking Using Detection Output

PublishedJanuary 14, 2020
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

Patent Claims
12 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 1

Original Legal Text

1. A method, comprising: receiving, by a user equipment (UE), a first signal from a transceiver, the first signal including a logarithm likelihood ratio (LLR) symbol detection output from a previously detected symbol; detecting the LLR symbol detection output using a linear minimum mean square error (LMMSE) method; determining a symbol probability based on the LLR symbol detection output; determining a soft mean and a soft variance based on the LLR symbol detection output; determining a first coefficient and a second coefficient based on the determined symbol probability, the soft mean, the soft variance, a signal to noise ratio (SNR) of the first signal and an SNR of a second signal received by the UE from the transceiver; determining channel state information (CSI) on a channel between the transceiver and the UE based on the second signal received by the UE from the transceiver, a previous CSI, the first coefficient and the second coefficient; and tracking the communication channel based on the determined CSI.

Plain English Translation

Wireless communication systems. This invention addresses the problem of accurately tracking a communication channel in a user equipment (UE). The method involves receiving a first signal from a transceiver, which contains a logarithm likelihood ratio (LLR) symbol detection output from a previously detected symbol. This LLR output is then processed using a linear minimum mean square error (LMMSE) method. A symbol probability is determined from the LLR output, along with a soft mean and a soft variance. Based on these values, along with the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the first signal and the SNR of a second signal also received by the UE, a first and a second coefficient are calculated. Channel state information (CSI) for the channel between the transceiver and the UE is then determined using the second signal, a previous CSI estimate, and the calculated first and second coefficients. Finally, the communication channel is tracked by updating its state based on this determined CSI.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first coefficient and the second coefficient are determined based on a channel scaler.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to signal processing techniques for adjusting signal characteristics in communication systems, particularly in scenarios where signal amplitude or power needs to be dynamically controlled. The problem addressed is the need for precise and adaptive scaling of signal coefficients to optimize transmission quality, reduce distortion, or comply with regulatory limits. The method involves determining a first coefficient and a second coefficient, which are used to modify signal properties such as amplitude, phase, or frequency response. These coefficients are calculated based on a channel scaler, which is a parameter or function that adjusts the scaling factor applied to the signal. The channel scaler may be derived from system conditions, such as signal-to-noise ratio, interference levels, or power constraints. By dynamically adjusting the coefficients using the channel scaler, the system can achieve better performance, such as improved signal integrity, reduced power consumption, or compliance with transmission standards. The method ensures that the coefficients are optimized for the current operating conditions, enhancing overall system efficiency and reliability.

Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first signal is at least one of a long training field, a high throughput long training field, a very high throughput long training field and another type of training field.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving signal processing in environments where training fields are used for channel estimation and synchronization. The problem addressed is the need for robust and flexible training field detection to support various wireless standards and modulation schemes. The method involves processing a received signal to identify and decode different types of training fields, including long training fields (LTFs), high throughput LTFs (HT-LTFs), very high throughput LTFs (VHT-LTFs), and other proprietary or future training field formats. The system dynamically adapts to the type of training field detected, ensuring accurate channel estimation and synchronization regardless of the wireless standard in use. This flexibility allows compatibility with multiple protocols, such as IEEE 802.11a/g/n/ac/ax, while maintaining high performance in diverse communication scenarios. The method enhances reliability in signal detection, reducing errors in data transmission and improving overall system efficiency. By supporting multiple training field types, the invention enables seamless interoperability between different wireless devices and networks.

Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the second signal is a data field of a WiFi signal.

Plain English Translation

A system and method for wireless communication involves transmitting and receiving signals to determine the position of a device within a defined space. The method includes generating a first signal from a first device and a second signal from a second device, where the second signal is a data field of a Wi-Fi signal. The first signal is transmitted to the second device, and the second signal is transmitted to the first device. The first device measures the time difference between the transmission of the first signal and the reception of the second signal, while the second device measures the time difference between the reception of the first signal and the transmission of the second signal. These time measurements are used to calculate the distance between the two devices. The system can include multiple devices to improve accuracy and coverage. The method is particularly useful in indoor environments where GPS signals are weak or unavailable, enabling precise location tracking for applications such as asset tracking, navigation, and emergency response. The use of Wi-Fi signals allows integration with existing wireless infrastructure, reducing deployment costs.

Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The method of claim 1 , wherein tracking the communication channel comprises updating the determined CSI when the communication channel changes.

Plain English Translation

A system and method for monitoring and updating communication channel state information (CSI) in wireless communication networks. The technology addresses the challenge of maintaining accurate CSI in dynamic environments where communication channels frequently change due to factors like mobility, interference, or environmental conditions. The method involves continuously tracking the communication channel to ensure real-time updates of the CSI when changes occur. This is achieved by detecting variations in channel conditions and recalculating the CSI accordingly. The updated CSI is then used to optimize transmission parameters, such as modulation schemes, coding rates, or beamforming configurations, to improve communication reliability and efficiency. The system may employ techniques like pilot signals, reference signals, or feedback mechanisms to assess channel conditions. By dynamically adjusting the CSI, the method ensures that the communication system adapts to changing conditions, reducing errors and enhancing throughput. This approach is particularly useful in high-mobility scenarios, dense networks, or environments with significant multipath interference. The method may be implemented in base stations, user devices, or network controllers to support various wireless standards, including 5G, Wi-Fi, or other advanced communication protocols. The solution provides a robust mechanism for maintaining accurate channel state information, leading to improved performance and user experience in wireless networks.

Claim 6

Original Legal Text

6. The method of claim 5 , wherein recently updated values of CSI are provided a higher weighting when updating the determined CSI when the communication channel changes.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving channel state information (CSI) accuracy in dynamic environments. The problem addressed is maintaining reliable CSI updates when communication channels change rapidly, such as in mobile or high-mobility scenarios, where outdated CSI can degrade performance. The method involves dynamically adjusting the weighting of CSI updates based on their recency. When the communication channel changes, recently updated CSI values are given higher priority in the CSI update process. This ensures that the most current channel conditions are reflected in the CSI, improving system performance by reducing errors caused by stale information. The approach likely integrates with a broader CSI estimation or feedback mechanism, where channel measurements are periodically updated and used for tasks like beamforming, scheduling, or link adaptation. By prioritizing recent CSI updates, the method adapts to changing channel conditions more effectively than static weighting schemes. This is particularly useful in scenarios where channel variations are frequent, such as in millimeter-wave communications or high-speed mobility applications. The technique may involve comparing the timing of CSI updates against a threshold or using a time-based weighting function to determine the influence of each update on the final CSI determination. The overall goal is to enhance communication reliability and throughput by ensuring that the CSI used for decision-making is as current as possible.

Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. An apparatus, comprising: a memory; a processor; and a receiver configured to: receive a first signal from a transceiver, the first signal including a logarithm likelihood ratio (LLR) symbol detection output from a previously detected symbol, detect the LLR symbol detection output using a linear minimum mean square error (LMMSE) method; determine a symbol probability based on the LLR symbol detection output, determine a soft mean and a soft variance based on the LLR symbol detection output, determine a first coefficient and a second coefficient based on the determined symbol probability, the soft mean, the soft variance, a signal to noise ratio (SNR) of the first signal and an SNR of a second signal received by the UE from the transceiver, determine channel state information (CSI) on a channel between the transceiver and the receiver based on the second signal received from the transceiver, a previous CSI, the first coefficient and the second coefficient, and track the communication channel based on the determined CSI.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving channel state information (CSI) tracking in receivers to enhance signal detection accuracy. The problem addressed is the challenge of accurately estimating and tracking channel conditions in dynamic wireless environments, which is critical for reliable data transmission. The apparatus includes a memory, a processor, and a receiver that processes signals from a transceiver. The receiver receives a first signal containing a logarithm likelihood ratio (LLR) symbol detection output from a previously detected symbol. Using a linear minimum mean square error (LMMSE) method, the receiver detects the LLR symbol detection output. It then determines a symbol probability, a soft mean, and a soft variance based on the LLR output. The apparatus calculates a first and second coefficient using the symbol probability, soft mean, soft variance, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the first signal, and the SNR of a second signal received from the transceiver. The second signal is used to determine CSI on the communication channel between the transceiver and receiver, incorporating the first and second coefficients along with previous CSI. The apparatus tracks the communication channel based on the updated CSI, improving signal detection and transmission reliability in varying channel conditions.

Claim 8

Original Legal Text

8. The apparatus of claim 7 , wherein the first coefficient and the second coefficient are determined based on a channel scaler.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to signal processing systems, specifically for adjusting signal coefficients in communication or signal transmission systems. The problem addressed is the need to dynamically adjust signal coefficients to optimize performance, such as improving signal quality, reducing interference, or enhancing transmission efficiency. The apparatus includes a signal processing system that processes input signals using a first coefficient and a second coefficient. These coefficients are dynamically determined based on a channel scaler, which adjusts the coefficients in response to changes in the communication channel or signal conditions. The channel scaler may use feedback from the channel or signal environment to modify the coefficients, ensuring optimal signal processing. The apparatus may also include a coefficient adjustment module that applies the first and second coefficients to the input signals, modifying their amplitude, phase, or other properties. The channel scaler may be implemented as a hardware or software component that monitors channel conditions and adjusts the coefficients accordingly. This dynamic adjustment helps maintain signal integrity and performance under varying conditions. The invention is particularly useful in wireless communication systems, where channel conditions can change rapidly due to factors like multipath fading, interference, or mobility. By dynamically adjusting the coefficients, the system can compensate for these variations, improving signal quality and reliability. The apparatus may also include additional components, such as filters, amplifiers, or modulators, to further enhance signal processing.

Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. The apparatus of claim 7 , wherein the first signal is at least one of a short training field, a long training field, a high throughput long training field, a very high throughput long training field and another type of training field.

Plain English Translation

Wireless communication systems use training fields to synchronize and calibrate transmissions between devices. These fields, such as short training fields (STF), long training fields (LTF), high throughput long training fields (HT-LTF), and very high throughput long training fields (VHT-LTF), help receivers estimate channel conditions and adjust for signal distortions. However, existing systems may not efficiently support multiple types of training fields, leading to compatibility issues or reduced performance in diverse network environments. The invention addresses this by providing an apparatus that processes a first signal, which can be any type of training field, including STF, LTF, HT-LTF, VHT-LTF, or another training field type. The apparatus includes a receiver configured to receive the first signal and a processor that processes the signal to extract synchronization and channel estimation information. This flexibility allows the apparatus to operate in various wireless standards, such as IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi), by dynamically adapting to different training field formats. The apparatus may also include additional components, such as an antenna array or a signal conditioning module, to enhance signal reception and processing. By supporting multiple training field types, the invention improves interoperability and performance in heterogeneous wireless networks.

Claim 10

Original Legal Text

10. The apparatus of claim 7 , wherein the second signal is a data field of a WiFi signal.

Plain English Translation

Technical Summary: This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving data transmission efficiency in WiFi networks. The problem addressed is the need to enhance data handling in WiFi signals to support advanced functionalities or optimize performance. The apparatus includes a transmitter and receiver configured to process WiFi signals. The key innovation involves using a data field within a WiFi signal as a second signal, distinct from the primary data payload. This second signal can carry additional information, such as control data, synchronization markers, or auxiliary payloads, without disrupting the standard WiFi communication protocol. The apparatus may also include modulation circuitry to embed this second signal within the WiFi frame structure, ensuring compatibility with existing WiFi standards while enabling new features. The solution allows for more efficient use of the WiFi spectrum by leveraging underutilized portions of the signal, such as unused bits in the data field. This can improve network performance, enable new applications like low-latency communication, or support additional services without requiring protocol changes. The apparatus may also include error correction mechanisms to ensure reliable transmission of the second signal alongside the primary data. Overall, the invention provides a method to enhance WiFi signals by repurposing existing data fields, offering a backward-compatible way to introduce new functionalities in wireless networks.

Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. The apparatus of claim 7 , wherein tracking the communication channel comprises updating the determined CSI when the communication channel changes.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to apparatuses that track and update channel state information (CSI) in dynamic communication environments. The problem addressed is the need for accurate and real-time CSI to optimize signal transmission and reception in varying channel conditions, such as those caused by mobility, interference, or environmental changes. The apparatus includes a receiver configured to obtain a signal from a communication channel and a processor that determines CSI based on the received signal. The CSI represents characteristics of the communication channel, such as signal strength, phase, and multipath effects. The apparatus also includes a tracking module that monitors the communication channel for changes. When a change is detected, the tracking module updates the CSI to reflect the new channel conditions. This ensures that the communication system adapts to dynamic environments, improving reliability and performance. The apparatus may further include a transmitter that adjusts transmission parameters, such as modulation, coding, or beamforming, based on the updated CSI. This adaptive adjustment helps maintain optimal communication quality despite fluctuations in the channel. The system may also incorporate feedback mechanisms to refine CSI updates, ensuring accuracy over time. The invention is particularly useful in high-mobility scenarios, such as vehicular communications or rapidly changing wireless networks.

Claim 12

Original Legal Text

12. The apparatus of claim 11 , wherein recently updated values of CSI are provided a higher weighting when updating the determined CSI when the communication channel changes.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving channel state information (CSI) accuracy in dynamic environments. The problem addressed is the degradation of CSI reliability when communication channels change rapidly, such as due to mobility or environmental interference, leading to poor signal quality and reduced throughput. The apparatus includes a receiver configured to obtain CSI measurements from a communication channel, a processor to determine updated CSI values, and a memory to store historical CSI data. The processor applies a weighting mechanism that prioritizes recently updated CSI values over older measurements when the communication channel changes. This adaptive weighting ensures that the most relevant CSI data is used, improving real-time channel estimation and adaptation. The system may also include a feedback module to transmit the updated CSI to a transmitter, enabling dynamic adjustments to modulation, coding, or beamforming parameters. The weighting factor can be dynamically adjusted based on the rate of channel changes, ensuring optimal performance in varying conditions. This approach enhances signal quality, reduces latency, and improves overall communication efficiency in dynamic wireless environments.

Patent Metadata

Filing Date

Unknown

Publication Date

January 14, 2020

Inventors

Hongbing CHENG
Ruchen DUAN
Jungwon LEE

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